Feedback: Special Prosecutor Appointed In Hallett Case

Jefferson County Court Judge Kim Martusewicz has appointed a special prosecutor to look into the case of sheriff's deputy Adam Hallett.

Martusewicz ruled there would be a conflict of interest for county District Attorney Cindy Intschert to investigate the sheriff's department's handling of the case.

The judge has appointed Oneida County District Attorney Scott McNamara (pictured) as the special prosecutor

Officials said McNamara will have the same powers Intschert would have in terms of convening a grand jury if he deems it necessary.

Hallett was found in his county vehicle last December 1, parked on the side of county route 72 in the town of Henderson.

He was slumped over the wheel and at first appeared to be unconscious, according to a woman who reported the matter to 911.

The sheriff's deputy who responded to the scene dismissed an ambulance and state police unit, and threw an open bottle of liquor found in the vehicle into a field, according to internal county reports.

Hallett was described as acting "somewhat intoxicated," but he was never tested for alcohol.

Sheriff John Burns subsequently suspended Hallett without pay for a time, but the incident - along with others in the department - produced calls for an outside investigation.

"I more than welcome a special prosecutor. I hope this gets it over and done with," said Burns Tuesday afternoon.

Intschert said she was advised of the ruling, but declined further comment.